The Grand Erie District School Board has approved a balanced $425-million operating budget and a $21.9-million capital budget for the 2025-26 school year. Passed on June 23, the budget focuses on long-term sustainability, with 93% of new staffing funds going directly into classrooms.
Key staffing investments include new teachers, early childhood educators, educational assistants, custodial staff, and supports for Multi-Lingual Learners. Additional funds will enhance transportation, professional development, specialized services, technology, and classroom resources.
The budget reflects community input and supports a projected enrolment increase to 28,085 students. It is up $28 million from last year’s budget, driven by higher enrolment.
Board Chair Susan Gibson says “this budget reaffirms our commitment to delivering high-quality education with an intentional approach to long-term sustainability across Grand Erie schools to support students and staff in our growing community”. While Director of Education JoAnna Roberto adds, “the investments outlined are a result of a thoughtful balance between today’s priorities and tomorrow’s needs for all learners.”
For more information, visit www.granderie.ca/budget.
Written by Jeremy Hall